4.1. The following criteria will be used for all levels of com-petition and, unless specifically restricted elsewhere, in all divisions. All four criteria are important because they overlap and build on each other. In order for a piece to reach its fullest potential, it must succeed in all four areas simultaneously.

4.2. Craftsmanship refers to the technical skills involved in bird carving: sculpting, painting, and finishing techniques. The execution of craftsmanship will be looked for in the subject, any habitat, accessories, and the base itself, if there should be one. Good craftsmanship should be consistent throughout the entire piece.

4.3. Accuracy involves the correctness of a piece from a scientific perspective. Size, shape, color, pattern, location, number, are the concepts important here. Anything accompanying the subject must be given the same scrutiny. Accuracy involves the natural history of the whole piece, all of its components, and the appropriateness of those components together.

4.4. Essence of the Species involves capturing the "jizz" or "gestalt" of a species. It involves a thorough knowledge of one’s subject and the ability to capture an attitude in wood. Capturing the essence of your subject and giving it the spark that brings it alive.

4.5. Artistry of a piece refers to its design and composition. This is where presentation, innovation, and creativity all come into play. There should be beauty in the concept apart from the beauty of the bird itself. Line, form, con-tent, color, mass, and movement should all be working together to create an integrated whole.